How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home is a perfect dish for cozy evenings and family gatherings. This hearty Italian-style soup combines pasta, beans, beef, and vegetables simmered in a rich tomato broth. It’s not only filling but also easy to make right in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting meal at home, this recipe will surely delight everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of herbs and spices creates a deliciously aromatic soup that warms your soul.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with bread for dipping; it’s adaptable for any occasion.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with beans and veggies, this soup is a wholesome choice for family dinners.
• Great for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent option for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at home, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools will help ensure your cooking process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for simmering the soup evenly and accommodating all the ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot while allowing you to mix ingredients thoroughly.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping veggies and prepping ingredients effectively.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting vegetables quick and easy, enhancing your overall cooking experience.

Ingredients

A hearty Italian-style soup with pasta, beans, beef, and vegetables simmered in a rich tomato broth—cozy, filling, and easy to make at home.

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

For the Beans and Broth

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) great northern beans, drained
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 4 cups beef broth

For the Pasta

• 1 cup ditalini pasta

For Flavoring

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 ½ tsp basil
• 1 tsp oregano
• ½ tsp thyme
• Salt & pepper to taste

How to Make How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned while breaking it apart with your wooden spoon. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Add Beans and Tomatoes

Stir in the kidney beans, great northern beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well to combine all flavors.

Step 4: Season the Soup

Add basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Once boiling, add the ditalini pasta. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer until pasta is al dente—about 10-12 minutes.

Step 6: Serve Hot

After cooking is complete, ladle into bowls and enjoy! This delightful soup pairs well with crusty bread or fresh salad on the side.

How to Serve How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

This comforting soup is perfect for cozy nights in or family gatherings. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping. A rustic sourdough or French baguette works wonderfully.

Topped with Parmesan

• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. It adds a salty richness that complements the soup.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Pair your soup with a fresh garden salad. A light vinaigrette will balance the hearty flavors of the Pasta e Fagioli.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. This adds an interactive element to your meal and keeps it cozy.

With Olive Oil Drizzle

• Drizzle high-quality olive oil on top just before serving. This enhances the dish’s richness and offers a fragrant aroma.

How to Perfect How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

Perfecting this recipe can elevate your cooking game. Here are some tips to make sure your Pasta e Fagioli shines.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality beef broth make a big difference in flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Feel free to add more herbs or spices based on your preference.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For best texture, cook ditalini pasta separately and add it just before serving. This prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Add Greens: Stir in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit for about 15 minutes after cooking. The flavors meld beautifully when given time to rest.

Best Side Dishes for How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

Pairing side dishes can elevate your meal even further. Here are some appetizing options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread is easy to prepare and complements the rich flavors of the soup.
2. Caprese Salad
   This refreshing salad made with tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella can provide a light contrast to the hearty soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add depth and a touch of sweetness alongside your meal.
4. Stuffed Peppers
   These can be filled with rice, beans, or vegetables, making them a hearty addition that pairs well with any soup.
5. Cheesy Breadsticks
   Soft breadsticks topped with cheese offer a deliciously indulgent side that everyone will love.
6. Vegetable Antipasto Platter
   An assortment of marinated vegetables not only brings color but also variety, enhancing your dining experience.
7. Spinach Artichoke Dip
   Serve this creamy dip with tortilla chips or pita for a tasty appetizer that pairs nicely with the soup.
8. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing provides a crunchy contrast that balances out the warmth of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at home can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture of your soup. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Using low-quality ingredients: High-quality meat and fresh vegetables make a significant difference in flavor. Always choose fresh produce and good cuts of beef for the best results.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the ditalini pasta too long, it can become mushy. Add it to the soup only in the last 10 minutes of cooking to maintain its texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Proper seasoning is key to a flavorful soup. Taste your broth as it simmers and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference.
• Not allowing enough simmer time: Simmering enhances the flavors. Don’t rush this step; let your soup simmer for at least 30 minutes for optimal taste.
• Skipping the broth: Water lacks flavor compared to beef broth. Always use broth as a base to give your soup a richer taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 to 5 days for best quality.

Freezing How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags and consume within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a covered dish, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at home:

How do I make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home vegetarian?

You can easily adapt this recipe by using plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth instead of beef broth, while keeping all other ingredients as they are.

Can I use different beans in my Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other types of beans like black beans or pinto beans based on your preference.

How long does it take to make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home?

The total time is approximately 55 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

What can I serve with my Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home?

This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home provides a cozy dining experience that is both filling and delicious. This recipe is versatile—you can adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or personal preferences. Give it a try and enjoy customizing it!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home is the perfect cozy dish for family gatherings or quiet evenings. This hearty Italian-style soup features a delightful combination of tender pasta, nutritious beans, and savory beef simmered in a rich tomato broth. It’s easy to whip up in your kitchen and will leave everyone at the table satisfied. The aromatic blend of herbs and spices creates an inviting flavor that warms the soul, making it a go-to recipe for comfort food lovers. Whether served as a standalone meal or paired with crusty bread, this Pasta e Fagioli is sure to impress.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) great northern beans, drained
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 ½ tsp basil
• 1 tsp oregano
• ½ tsp thyme
• Salt & pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic until tender.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Stir in kidney beans, great northern beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
4. Season with basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
5. Add ditalini pasta; reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until pasta is al dente (about 10-12 minutes).
6. Serve hot with crusty bread or fresh salad.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 55mg